Iwobi Reveals What Wenger Told Him About Nigeria, England

Iwobi Reveals What Wenger Told Him About Nigeria, England

Sampson Adedeji

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has opened up on a pivotal conversation he had with former Arsenal FC manager Arsène Wenger regarding his international future, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Iwobi, who represented England at youth level before committing to Nigeria, disclosed that the decision came at a crucial stage in his career when he was weighing his options between the two nations.

“I was still trying to sort out FIFA clearance. I couldn’t play the knockout games to qualify for the Olympics, but I went to watch and be part of the squad,” Iwobi said. “The away fans turned up with instruments, making noise. I felt like I was at home this is where I belong.”

The Fulham midfielder further revealed that Wenger played a supportive role during the decision-making process, offering him the freedom to choose his preferred national team.

“It got to a time when I had to play for Nigeria’s first team, so they called me up against Egypt,” he explained. 

“Wenger said, ‘What do you want to do? You can delay it so you can think about England, or you can go and represent Nigeria.’”

Iwobi added that his experience with the Nigerian setup ultimately influenced his decision to pledge allegiance to the three-time African champions.

“Because of the experience I had, I wanted to go and represent Nigeria. He said they were going to stand by me and wished me all the best,” he said.

Reflecting on the differences between both football environments, Iwobi acknowledged the structure within the England system but emphasized the unique energy of playing for Nigeria.

“I love playing for England because it’s a strict regime, disciplined, with the best players around. But Nigeria is always fun. You never know what to expect good or bad,” he concluded.